(Born Jan. 21, 1940) Jack Nicklaus, also known as "The Golden Bear", is one of the most successful professional golfers of all time. Nicklaus currently holds the record for the most victories in major championships. After winning two U.S. Amateur Championships in 1959 and 1961, and challenging for the 1960 U.S. Open, Nicklaus turned professional towards the end of 1961.